Maruti’s Swift has been one of its most iconic and successful models not just in India, but in a lot of other overseas markets as well. This sporty, little hatchback has been around for 14 years and has sold close to 2 million units, despite not being the best in terms of comfort and equipment. The hatchback is now in its third generation and had been launched after the new Maruti Dzire, which is another successful model for Maruti. The Swift has been accepted by many Indians and now comes with the option of an automatic gearbox as well. The Swift is priced between ₹ 4.99 lakh and 8.29 lakh for the top-of-the-line variant.
It’s a looker
The Swift continues to be a good looking car, even in its third-generation avatar. It gets a wide, sporty-looking grille, flanked by swept-back headlights while the bumper gets what appears to be a ‘smile’ in the lower chin. The B-pillar looks like the one on the Dzire, while the rear door gets its grab handle in the C-pillar, giving the car the look of a three-door hatch. At the rear, it gets a flat boot section and the smart tail lights get LED inserts which look good when lit up. The new car is also 85kgs lighter the model it replaces.
Features galore
The cabin gets an all-black theme and fresh instrument cluster with twin, hooded binnacles for the speedometer and tachometer. There are also red highlights around and it gets the central multi-information display from the Dzire. The top-of-the-line model is equipped with a 7.0-inch Smartplay touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, reverse parking camera, LED projector headlamps and daytime running lamps, ABS with EBD and brake assist, Isofix child seat mounts and dual front airbags.
Power source
The new Maruti Suzuki Swift gets its engines from the previous model: a 1.2-litre, petrol engine that produces 81bhp and 113Nm of torque and a 1.3-litre, Fiat-sourced diesel engine that makes 73bhp and 190Nm of torque. It gets two transmission options: a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automated manual. And fuel economy figures have improved, thanks to the lighter frame. The engine is responsive and power delivery is linear from low speeds, and there are barely any vibrations. The engine loves to rev and produces a nice, sporty snarl. The gearbox is quick and crisp, making the throws light and short.
The competition
The Maruti Suzuki Swift competes with the likes of the Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS, Ford Figo and Polo. The new Swift is nearly ₹ 40,000 more expensive than the older car, and is somewhat cheaper than the Ford Figo. Also, read the latest car comparisons, only at autoX.
